How to Install & Finish Hardwood Floors

Beautiful Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is prized for its classic look and ability to add warmth and character to any home. Wood floors are one of the most popular finish selections available today, and they tend to work well with any type of decor. While this material can be expensive, there are ways to make it more affordable. Begin by choosing unfinished panels that you can stain and seal yourself. Save on installation costs by installing the material on your own. Depending on the size of your home, you can complete this project over the course of a weekend using simple tools and techniques that are easy to learn.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure Plywood Hammer Nails Floor stapler Staples Orbital sander with medium and light grit paper Polyurethane stain (optional) Rags Paint brush Wood seal or floor wax

Instructions

1. Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of the room in which you will be installing the flooring. Multiply the length and width of the room to determine square footage. Add 5 percent to this number to account for discolored or damaged planks, and to provide for future repairs.

2. Purchase your wood flooring from a local home improvement store. Choose pine or oak for affordability, or consider using reclaimed wood, available at salvage shops.

3. Place the wood planks into the room where they will be installed and allow them to sit for 2-3 days before installation. This will allow the material to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity levels.

4. Remove baseboards, floor molding, and other trim to make way for your new flooring.

5. Prepare your subfloor by removing any visible nails, staples or tacks. Cover badly damaged subfloors with a single layer of 1/4" plywood, nailed or stapled in place every 8 inches on center.

6. Leave a 1/4-inch gap between your first planks and the wall to allow for expansion. Begin laying your first boards along the longest wall. Nail this first row into place, but make sure the nails are not closer than 2 inches to the end of each board. Use a circular saw to cut pieces to fit the end of the row.

7. Continue laying planks, making sure to stagger the ends to provide a more stable installation. All boards should be stapled every six to eight inches using a wood flooring stapler.

8. Sand the boards once you have finished installing them. Use an orbital sander instead of a regular floor sander, as they provide better control and handling for novice installers. Begin with a heavy grit paper, then repeat the process using a finer grit.

9. Apply a polyurethane stain if desired. Choose one made for interior use, and apply it using a rag. Work in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Wipe away excess stain as you work.

10. Seal the floor using a wax or wood sealer. This material can be applied with a paint brush or rag and will protect the wood from moisture, dirt and damage.